Thank you IIS

[JJDOBBER79]

Hi there everyone.
Just thought I would share a recent experience. I recently joined another forum for another hobby of mine (I have too many) and I made my first post. I couldn't believe the response. Everyone was either replying with patronising comments (even though it was a beginner forum) or more interested in discrediting and mocking each other. I had 14 replies, all of them where other members fighting with each other, no interest in my post. When I joined IIS, I have had nothing but helpful replies. In fact, members here have taken time out of their lives to write huge replies which I really appreciate. Thanks again. I wont be posting to the other forum again. Maybe I should tell them to check out this forum:)

[Jon]

Interesting, Jas. I've had a similar experience.

I've got this theory that amateur astronomers are pretty patient, philosophical kind of people. Any hobby where one night in two you look up, watch the clouds roll in and say "oh well, not tonight" is not really going to attract the sort of people who always want to get it their way.

Just a theory ;-)

Whatever the reason, the folks round here are delightful, supportive people.

[jjjnettie]

:) Astronomers I've found are the nicest, funniest and most helpful people around. :)

[BlackWidow]

I think astronomers are all crazy. Walking around looking up all the time and bumping into things. All have sore backs and bruised eye sockets, as well as worn out wallets. We need to all look after each other as it's only us crazy ones the truly understand the obsession.

Oh and a good looking bunch too

Mardy

[JJDOBBER79]

Hahahaha. some good theories. Whatever it is, people round here seem genuinely interested in helping others. Its a good place. Maybe because there is little need for competition of any kind. To most of us, we do it simply because its a fun/enjoyable thing to do.

[alocky]

Here's another theory I've developed over the decades working as a geophysicist. People who routinely have to think about processes taking millions of years end up with a fairly big picture view of the 'importance' or otherwise of humanity. Throw in the bigger scales and the fact that amateurs do things for the love of it, and I think the typical astro buff has an extremely large scale sense of perspective. Of course there are always exceptions, but I find more peace in the company of fellow am astro nuts than anywhere else.
Cheers,
Andrew.

[Intergage]

I posted in a DIY forum yesterday about building basic rockets and what not and got abused in a beginner forum haha. IIS is by far the closest, most helpful community I know of online and I'm a pretty big nerd haha.

[brian nordstrom]

:thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup: +1 , jjj .
And thanks Jas .
Brian.

[ZeroID]

Other than one or two minor disagreements I have to say you lot are definitely the most friendly and helpful bunch I've ever come across. I like the 'bigger picture' theory, we all have better things to do and with the size of the challenge you need all the help you can get.

Thanks folks, long may it continue ... :thumbsup:

[dutch2]

I agree with Jas. I had similar experiences on other forums.
I enjoy my photography and astronomy as hobbies. I can't afford to go pro in anything.:P
ISS is a great place to share photos and experiences, without being judged.
You guys are the best.:thumbsup:

[barx1963]

Yes generally IIS is a nice place to spend time, as are astro camps and similar gatherings. Of course there are some exceptions, I have coped a serve from one or 2 members, but that's life.

Malcolm

[FlashDrive]

Yep........a great place to share info...swap or buy some gear...exchange ideas...etc.
Great hobby...just need a ' deep ' wallet.....;)

Flash...........